Every new Volkswagen comes with a factory warranty that covers a wide range of repairs if something goes wrong, but it only lasts for the first few years of ownership and for a set number of miles. So, what do you do when the factory warranty runs out? This is where the Volkswagen aftermarket warranty comes in. You can get a Volkswagen aftermarket warranty directly from the manufacturer or from a third party. Here’s a look at some of the coverages and protections you can get with a Volkswagen aftermarket warranty.
What Does the Volkswagen Factory Warranty Cover?
Up until a few years ago, the Volkswagen factory warranty ran for six years or up to 72,000 miles, but in 2020 it dropped to four years and 50,000 miles. The new vehicle limited warranty is a bumper-to-bumper warranty and covers repairs for any mechanical breakdowns that result from manufacturer workmanship errors or material defects. This warranty includes almost all parts of a Volkswagen vehicle, including the powertrain. In addition to this comprehensive warranty, Volkswagen provides two years of free maintenance for all vehicles.
Volkswagen Aftermarket Warranty
Volkswagen offers an extended or aftermarket warranty called the Volkswagen Drive Easy program. The automaker offers it at three different levels, and each level provides protection for specific components. The most significant difference between the factory warranty and Volkswagen’s extended warranty is the factory warranty comes at no added cost, whereas the extended warranty plan is an optional purchase. You can purchase it when you buy a new Volkswagen and add the cost to your monthly car payment or wait until your factory warranty runs out. Some highlights shared by all three levels include:
- Coverage for up to 10 years or 150,000 miles for 2018 models and newer
- Transferable for a $50 fee
- Deductible options range from $0, $100, or $250, though a $100 disappearing deductible is also available
- Genuine Volkswagen parts with repairs
- Full refund available within 30 days of purchase, with a prorated refund after
- Available for purchase at Volkswagen dealerships or other authorized providers
The basic plan is the Powertrain Plan. It covers the:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Drive axle
- Hybrid/electric components
If you want more coverage than this, the mid-level plan is the Gold Plan. It covers everything from the Drivetrain Plan plus:
- Climate control
- Electrical systems
- Front suspension
- Fuel system
- Rear suspension
- Shocks
The top-level plan is the Platinum Plan. It covers everything from the two lower levels and adds several systems. These include:
- Steering
- Brakes
- Audio system
- Navigation
- CV boots
- Various high-tech components
Volkswagen’s aftermarket warranty comes with some added perks. Along with the covered repairs, all plan levels also provide:
- Roadside assistance 24 hours a day with flat tire service, lockout assistance, fuel delivery, and battery jump starts
- Towing reimbursement for up to $100 (the towing service takes you to the nearest Volkswagen dealership or authorized service center)
- Trip interruption coverage of up to $200 a day for five days
- Rental car coverage of up to $35 a day for up to 10 days
Does the Volkswagen Extended Service Plan Have Exclusions?
Volkswagen’s Drive Easy program is a comprehensive plan, but there are some things that it won’t cover. It doesn’t pay for wear and tear items or damage that results from a lack of maintenance. Damage from misuse, such as racing or off-road driving, will not be covered. It’s also important to note that regularly scheduled maintenance is not covered under the extended warranty, but if you have a new vehicle, these visits are free for the first two years.
If you get into an accident and damage your Volkswagen, it is not covered under the original or extended warranty. This is where your insurance policy would take care of repairs.
Third-Party Volkswagen Aftermarket Car Warranty
A third-party extended warranty is a Volkswagen aftermarket warranty that doesn’t come from Volkswagen. Many companies offer aftermarket warranties, giving drivers options other than Volkswagen’s plan.
While there are many benefits to purchasing a Volkswagen aftermarket warranty from the manufacturer, there are also some benefits of choosing a third-party provider. As you shop for a Volkswagen aftermarket warranty, consider these benefits:
- Third-party providers are often more affordable because they are not connected to a vehicle manufacturer.
- Most third-party providers don’t require that you have repairs done at a Volkswagen dealership. Many just require that you bring it to an ASE-Certified mechanic.
- Third-party warranty providers offer more flexible options. These companies can adjust the coverage to suit the needs of drivers, and some offer coverage for longer time periods and more mileage.
Is a Volkswagen Aftermarket Warranty Worth the Cost?
Extended warranties can be a good investment if you plan on keeping your Volkswagen on the road for a long time. If you purchase a used car that doesn’t have any time or miles left on the original warranty and want to have some peace of mind, an aftermarket warranty might be a good idea. It’s important to consider your financial situation before purchasing an extended plan. Do you have the funds to pay for expensive repairs if they come up suddenly?
An extended warranty is especially important if you purchase an older vehicle or a model with some known mechanical issues or a reputation for major component failures. If this is the case, an extended warranty can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
What Are the Top Aftermarket Warranty Companies?
Some of the top companies that offer extended warranties are:
- Endurance: Endurance offers warranties for eight years and up to 200,000 miles and more. They offer six different plan options with varying costs and coverages.
- CarShield: CarShield has six different plans with coverage lasting up to over 300,000 miles.
- CARCHEX: CARCHEX offers five different plan options and coverage for up to 10 years and 250,000 miles.
Most third-party aftermarket warranties are transferable to a new owner if you decide to sell your car, and having an extended warranty can even add value to your vehicle.
A Volkswagen aftermarket warranty provides protection after the original warranty runs out. Whether or not you need one depends on the vehicle you purchase and your financial situation. Shop around and consider all your options before getting Volkswagen’s extended warranty or a third-party warranty.
At FIXD, our mission is to make car ownership as simple, easy, and affordable as possible. Our research team utilizes the latest automotive data and insights to create tools and resources that help drivers get peace of mind and save money over the life of their car.
